HOLLY SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL | Student Handbook, 2015‐16
Message from the Administration
Welcome to Holly Springs High School for the 2015‐16 school year! We are very excited about the start of another school year and
the journey toward graduation for all of our students. We firmly believe that we are a learning community where all students can
learn when provided with the appropriate tools and resources in a supportive environment. We look forward to partnering with
parents and the community as we support our students in being successful in a safe and academically challenging environment.
We are very proud of our students and the work they have accomplished in the past. We are confident that our students will reach
even greater excellence and success this year! The hope is that the information in this handbook will provide information that will
support that success. Please note that updates to this document will be made available as necessary during the school year via the
school website and through written notices to students and families.
Best wishes on a successful year! Go Hawks!
The Holly Springs High School Administrative Team
Student Groups
9th Grade Students, Last Names A‐Z
10th‐12th Graders, Last Names A‐E
10th‐12th Graders, Last Names F‐K
10th‐12th Graders, Last Names L‐R
10th‐12th Graders, Last Names S‐Z
Important Phone Numbers
Main Office ..................................................
Athletic Director ...........................................
Attendance Office ........................................
Band Program ..............................................
Cafeteria .......................................................
Chorus Program ...........................................
Assistant Principal
Doug Poppe
Catherine Trudell
Bruce Page
Melissa Hurst
Eric Burleson
(919) 577‐1444
(919) 577‐1438
(919) 577‐1441
(919) 577‐1766
(919) 577‐1442
(919) 577‐1779
Counselor
Alan Ellington
Belinda Burch
Corina Murray
Matt O’Connor
Kristie Jones
Drivers Education .......................................... (919) 567‐4142
Fax ................................................................. (919) 577‐1742
Media Center ................................................ (919) 577‐1749
School Resource Officers .............................. (919) 577‐1777
Student Services / Counseling ...................... (919) 577‐1443
Transportation .............................................. (919) 805‐3030
Academics
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). This program allows
students to use their personal electronic devices for teacher
directed classroom activities. Students may use any device
that is Wi‐Fi enabled. To participate, students will be
required to access content through the WCPSS wireless
network. Students should be connected to the WAKE‐BYOD
wireless network. No student is required to bring a device.
Those who opt to do this must keep their device in their
possession at all times. HSHS will not be held responsible for
lost or stolen devices. Students who use their devices for
purposes other than those approved by the teacher and in
accordance with the Acceptable Use Policy may be subject to
consequences as defined by the student code of conduct and
WCPSS Board Policy.
Class Rank. To determine class rank, final course grades are
used. The total number of quality points earned is divided by
the total number of units of credits attempted. The results
are rounded to the third decimal place. Class rank for senior
honors is calculated through the third nine weeks of the
senior year.
State Required Assessments. Continuing in 2015‐16, End‐of‐
Course (EOC) tests will be administered in the following
courses: Biology, English II, and Math I. North Carolina Final
Exams (NCFEs) will be administered in accordance with the
state testing program. All sophomores will take the PSAT and
Plan assessments. All juniors will take the ACT. All seniors
who are identified as CTE Concentrators are required to
complete the WorkKeys assessment. Additional details on
each of these assessments can be found on the school’s
website.
Exams. Tentative exam dates for 2015‐16 are:
Fall Semester ................................. January 11‐15, 2016
Spring Semester ...................................... June 3‐9, 2016
A specific exam schedule for each semester will be
communicated as soon as possible each semester. Please
note that dates are tentative and can change due to a
number of factors.
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 1
Exam Exemptions for Seniors. Seniors will be exempt from
non‐state exams under the following parameters:
 All courses at HSHS operate on a semester block. For
these courses:
o 3 or fewer excused absences with an A average
o 2 or fewer excused absences with a B average
o 1 or fewer excused absences with a C average
 A student with an unexcused absence in a course will not
be exempt regardless of the number of absences or the
course average.
 The class average is defined as the numerical average of
the two grading periods (ie – what the final course grade
would be if the student was exempt from the exam).
 Any senior taking an Advanced Placement (AP) course
who (1) takes the AP exam, and (2) has an average of C or
higher in the course will be exempt from the exam.
 Any student who meets the requirements for an
exemption may choose to take the exam to improve their
overall average in the course. If a student opts to do this,
the exam will be factored into the grade regardless of its
effect on the overall course average.
 The final decision on whether a student is exempt from
the exam is made by the teacher.
GPA Calculations. Wake County determine official GPA
based on cumulative final grades. The GPA is figured and
reported on the transcript in both weighted and unweighted
form. To calculate an unweighted GPA, use the standard
class scale only. Students are ranked from highest to lowest
GPA using cumulative weighted grades. Additionally, a
seventh semester GPA is calculated for seniors. To calculate
the GPA, use the following steps:
1. Use of scale to assign quality points to each grade.
2. Add up all of the quality points to get the total.
3. Divide total quality points by the total number of
credits.
changed from an “F” to a “D” (60). The course teacher makes
the final determination of whether a student has met the
requirements of the contract. For more information, please
contact the Intervention Coordinator.
Graduation Guidelines. Graduation from Holly Spring High
School requires completion of a minimum number of credits
and completion of graduation requirements outlined in state
and district policy. For more information, please view the
specific requirements in the High School Planning Guide or
seek out your school counselor.
Homework Policy. This homework plan is designed to
implement WCPSS Board Policy 5510. Homework should
enrich and extend school experiences and reinforce or
preview learning. In general, homework in high school should
not extend beyond 120 minutes per night. Students who
routinely experience a heavier homework load than this
should seek a parent‐teacher conference. Where students
choose to challenge themselves with more rigorous college‐
level courses, homework may exceed this amount at times.
Integrity. All students are expected to show integrity in their
academic work. Students should not engage in cheating,
plagiarism, falsification of work, or other activities outlined in
WCPSS Board Policy 6445 and/or teacher directions for
assignments and classroom activities. Student behaviors in
violation of this policy will be addressed through appropriate
discipline as outlined by the student code of conduct.
Current scales for weighting depend on 9th grade entry date
and can be found in the WCPSS High School Planning Guide.
Interim Progress Reports. Students will be issued interim
progress reports in each class twice per grading period. All
teachers are required to issue these interim reports to each
student. Dates for interims for the 2015‐16 school year are
outlined below.
 Quarter 1: September 16, October 7
 Quarter 2: November 18, December 16
 Quarter 3: February 10, March 2
 Quarter 4: April 27, May 18
Grading Scale. Grades issued by HSHS are recorded as a
letter. Letter grades are determined by the following scale.
A = 90 – 100
WP = Withdrawal/no penalty
B = 80 – 89
WF = withdrawal with an F
C = 70 – 79
I = incomplete
D = 60 – 69
FF = Failed for Violation of
F = Less than 60
Attendance Policy
Media Center. The Media Center will be open from 6:55am –
3:30pm on Monday – Thursday and from 6:55am – 3:00pm
on Fridays. During class time, students must either be with a
teacher or have a pass from a teacher to use the Media
Center. Students with a pass must sign in and out of the
Media Center at the circulation desk. This includes students
coming to the Media Center during HOT Lunch.
Grade Recovery Contracts. Holly Springs High School offers
Grade Recovery Contracts to any student whose Quarter 1 or
Quarter 3 average is below a 60 (D). The contract requires
students to maintain regular attendance in HOT Lunch
tutorials during the following grading period (quarter 2 or 4).
Students may also be required to re‐submit work relevant to
essential course objectives in order to demonstrate
understanding of course material. Students who honor their
contracts will have their 1st or 3rd quarter letter grade
The Media Center offers printing options for students for $.10
per page. A self‐service copier is also available for the same
cost per page.
An atmosphere conducive to student learning will be
maintained in the Media Center at all times. Students who
disrupt this environment and/or violate proper use of the
internet and devices will be subject to appropriate
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 2
disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of
Conduct.
Report Cards. Report cards will be issued upon the
conclusion of each nine week grading period. Report cards
for Quarters 1‐3 will be distributed to students at school.
Quarter 4 report cards will be mailed to student homes.
Textbooks. Students are responsible for the textbooks issued
to them by their teacher. Any damages other than normal
wear and tear will be billed to the student. Students will be
charged for textbooks that they do not return at the end of
each semester.
HOT Lunch Tutorials & Study Halls. Students are expected to
work toward success in each course and should attend
tutorials as needed to meet this expectation. Each teacher
will schedule tutorial sessions with at least two tutorials
during HOT Lunch each week. Students failing a course or
who have late work to make up are mandated to attend
these tutorials during HOT lunch. Non‐attendance will result
in appropriate consequences from administration. Students
who establish a pattern of non‐attendance at tutorials or
show an ongoing lack of progress may be assigned to daily
HOT Lunch study hall sessions.
Administrative & General Information
Arrival to School. Students should not arrive on campus prior
to 6:45am. Upon arrival to school, students should either (1)
have a seat in the cafeteria, or (2) move to their first period
classroom / lockerbay. Students are not permitted to stand
and loiter in the front commons or any other open area /
walkway. Students are expected to enter the building in an
orderly manner. Excessive noise or other inappropriate
behavior will be addressed by school staff / administration.
By the 7:15am bell, all students should be moving toward
their first period class.
Cafeteria. Students wishing to purchase a lunch or breakfast
can find prices and menus on the HSHS and WCPSS websites.
Applications for free and reduced lunch are available in the
Student Services Office or on the WCPSS website. Please
note the following:
 Students are expected to comply with all rules and
regulations as established by Child Nutrition Services
(CNS) and Holly Springs High. Failure to comply with
school/CNS policies may result in loss of cafeteria
privileges and/or other disciplinary action.
 Students are expected to walk quickly and quietly to the
appropriate lunch line.
 Horseplay and line breaking of any type will not be
tolerated and will be addressed with disciplinary
consequence.
 All students must line up in an orderly manner as they
are waiting to be served.
 Examples of inappropriate behaviors include but are not
limited to yelling, loud talking, running, food throwing,
horseplay or other activities that do or are likely to draw
a crowd or cause disruption.
 Students are expected to leave their table and eating
area clean and trash‐free.
Carpool. All students should be dropped off in designated
areas by the school’s administration. Students should not be
dropped off in student or faculty parking lots.
Deliveries & Messages. Holly Springs High believes in
maximizing the instructional day and minimizing class
disruptions. Therefore, we will be unable to accept deliveries
for students. Classes will not be interrupted to deliver
messages / items to students or teachers. Only deliveries
that are crucial for classroom instruction or afterschool
events/practices will be accepted. Students are responsible
for picking up these items. In no situation will the school
accept deliveries of balloons, flowers, or other items not
critical to the operation of the school day.
Departure from School. Students should report directly to
their bus pick up area, to carpool, or to their vehicle. No
student should be on campus after 2:35pm unless under the
direct supervision of a staff member. Students who remain
on campus after this time will be required to report to a silent
study hall to await their transportation from campus.
Students who are repeatedly on campus after school without
specific purpose will be subject to disciplinary action in
accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
Fundraisers. Any fundraiser must be approved by the
principal or his designee. No fundraisers that require the use
of instructional time will be approved. Please refer to Board
Policy 6820 in the WCPSS Student/Parent Handbook for more
information.
Gym Lockers. Students will have a locker accessible to them
during physical education. It is recommended that students
purchase a lock to secure their items during class time.
Students are to remove his/her lock at the end of each class
period. Holly Springs High School is not responsible for items
lost or stolen from the gym locker.
Hall Passes. Students must obtain a written, signed, and
dated hall pass from their teacher in order to be out of their
assigned classroom or area. Students without a pass will be
directed back to their classroom. Students should move
quickly and directly to their destination.
Lockers. Lockers are provided to students upon request. If
the number of requests exceeds the number of lockers,
students may be asked to share lockers. To avoid theft and
loss of property, students should avoid giving their locker
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 3
combination to anyone. The lock issued at the beginning of
the school year is to be left on the locker at all times. If
removed, a new lock will be placed on the locker and the
student will be assessed a $5 fee until the original lock is
returned. Non‐school locks are not permitted and will be
removed by school staff. HSHS is not responsible for items
lost or stolen from your locker. School lockers are the
possession of the Wake County Board of Education and may
be entered at any time by the administration of Holly Springs
High School.
Lost & Found. The lost and found will be located in the front
office. Items in the lost and found will be disposed of
monthly on the 15th day of the month. The administration
strongly encourages that students refrain from bringing
expensive or irreplaceable items to school. The school
maintains no responsibility for items lost or damaged.
Office Hours. The main office is open Monday – Friday from
7am to 3:30pm. Please contact the front office (919‐577‐
1444) to schedule appointments with administrators. Please
contact Student Services (919‐577‐1443) to schedule
appointments with counselors.
Posters, Banners, & Signs. All posters and printed materials
must first be approved by the club / activity sponsor. Once
this approval is obtained, it must also be approved by the
assistant principal working with Student Activities. All printed
material must be initialed by the club sponsor or it will be
removed. Posters, signs, and any other printed materials may
be hung only on the painted brick wall surfaces in locker bays,
in stairwell landings, on brick columns in the cafeteria area,
and on approved bulletin boards. Items may not be posted
on other surfaces, on academic hallways, windows, columns,
or on walls in the front commons. All handouts must be
removed within three days of a specific event.
Tardy Policy. Students are expected to report to school and
class on time each day. A tardy is defined as not being in the
classroom at the sounding of the tardy bell. Failure to do so
will result in implementation of the tardy policy. The tardy
policy will take effect after the third day of each semester or
after the third day of enrollment. Unexcused tardies to
school or class will result in:
 Tardies 1‐4: Written Warning. The tardy pass will serve
as the written warning.
 Tardy 5: Referral to administrator resulting in lunch
detention for 2 days.
 Tardy 7: Referral to administrator resulting in lunch
detention for 3 days.
 Tardy 9: Referral to administrator resulting in 5 days
lunch detention and revocation of lunch pass for 10 days
(if applicable).
Please note the following:
 Excessive tardies can result in in‐school suspension, out‐
of‐school suspension, restriction of school privileges,
after school detention, and/or altered school schedule
for the student.
 Accumulation of tardies will begin each quarter / grading
period.
 The total number of tardies to school / class accumulates
together. For example, a student who is tardy to school
and then tardy to third period has accumulated two
tardies.
Skateboards / Bicycles / Rollerblades. Skateboarding and
roller skating are not permitted on our campus at any time.
Skateboards should be stored during the school day. They
will not be stored in the front office. All bicycles should be
parked in the area designated for that purpose. Students are
strongly encouraged to lock their bicycles to the bike rack.
The school is not responsible for stolen and/or damaged
bicycles or bicycle locks.
Transportation. Students are expected to comply with all
rules and regulations as established by the Wake County
Public School System Transportation Services and Holly
Springs High School. Failure to comply with
school/transportation policies may result in loss of bus
privileges and other disciplinary action.
Vending Machines. Snack machines are located in the
cafeteria. They are available to students during lunch and
after school. Machines are unavailable to students during
instructional class periods and class transitions. Students
who use the vending machines during these “off limits” time
periods are subject to disciplinary action.
Visitors. All visitors are required to report directly to the
main office upon entering the school building. Furthermore,
they will be required to receive a visitor’s badge in the front
office and wear the badge (provided by the school) during
their entire time on our campus Students from other WCPSS
schools and or other student guests are not permitted on
campus between the hours of 7am and 2:30pm. All students
and staff are required to report any suspected unauthorized
visitor(s) to the administration immediately. Any student
found on the campus of another school without
administrative approval may be suspended from school and
charged with trespassing.
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 4
Athletics
Passes/Prices. Admission to athletic events is $5 for every
sport but football. Football games are $6 admission. Golden
Hawks Club memberships will be available to students for
$50. This membership entitles students under the age of 18
to enter HSHS home games, excluding playoffs. Please speak
with a member of the athletic booster club or visit their
website for membership and pass information.
General Information. Holly Springs High School athletics
information includes:
Mascot: Golden Hawks
Colors: Royal Purple, Vegas Gold
Conference: SWAC
League: 4A
Athletic Director: Andy Wheeler
Athletic Trainer: Molly Arey
Co‐Athletic Trainer: Jill Munchick
Athletic Participation Form. This form must be completed
and filed with the school’s athletic trainer prior to a student’s
participation in any practice sessions and/or athletic contests.
A current physical examination is required and must be
recorded on this form. Please note that physical
examinations are valid for only 365 days.
Eligibility. Please refer to Board Policy 6860 in the WCPSS
Student/Parent Handbook.
School Spirit & Sportsmanship. Holly Springs High students
are encouraged to attend sporting events and support our
teams. Good sportsmanship is essential. Spectators are
expected to conduct themselves in a respectful way toward
visiting fans, coaches, and referees/officials. HSHS cheers
should be positive and of an appropriate nature. There
should be no booing or taunting of visiting teams, fans, or
referees/officials. Failure to abide by these expectations may
result in disciplinary action, revocation of privileges, and/or
removal from the game.
Attendance
Absence Notification. Parents are notified of student
absences daily via the automated phone messenger. Letters
will be mailed home when students have 3, 6, and 9
unexcused absences in a course. Letters will also be sent
home at 5, 7, 10, 15, and 20 total absences in a course. These
letters are sent on the first and 15th day of the month.
Absences from School. Absences are defined by the class
period, not the school day. A student must be present at
least half of the class/block in order to be counted present for
that class period.
Early Dismissal from School. Any student who needs to leave
school before the end of the school day should present a note
from a parent/guardian to the Attendance Office prior to the
7:25am bell. The note must include the student’s name,
reason for leaving, and phone number of a parent/guardian
that will be contacted for verification. Students must
checkout through the Attendance Office prior to leaving
campus. Please note that if a parent/guardian cannot be
reached to verify the note, the student will not be permitted
to check out.
Excused vs. Unexcused Absences. All absences are marked
as unexcused until a valid note for absences is turned in to
the Attendance Office. Students have two days upon return
to school from an absence to deliver this note to the
attendance office. Notes can be dropped off before or after
school or during lunch. They can also be emailed by the
parent directly to hshs‐attendance@wcpss.net. Absences can
be excused under a specific set of circumstances outlined in
WCPSS Board Policy 6000.
FF Policy for Excessive Absences. According to WCPSS Board
Policy 6000.8, if any student is absent more than 10 days
during a semester long course is subject to failure for that
course. At HSHS, the following process will be followed:
1. The teacher will have the right to waive the grade of FF
or failure due to excessive absences based on their
knowledge of the student’s mastery of course material
and the student’s diligence in making up the missed
material in an appropriate time frame as defined by the
teacher and relevant HSHS procedures.
2. If the student is to receive a grade of “FF,” they will be
presented with a waiver form by the teacher. With this
form, the student can request a waiver to allow their
original grade to stand. The student will receive a
decision in writing from the school by no later than 10
days after the conclusion of the semester.
3. Where a student’s original grade is an F, that grade will
post on the report card instead of the “FF.”
Make‐Up Work for Student Absences. For students who
have excused absences:
 All work can be made up for FULL credit provided it is
turned in within the allotted time for submitting work.
 If the absences is approved in advance and the work is
assigned in advance, all work is due on the day the
student returns to school.
 If the absence is not known in advance and work is not
assigned in advance, students will be provided at least
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 5

two days for every day absent to complete missing work.
Students and families are directed to WCPSS Board Policy
6000 for additional details on this.
Out‐of‐school suspension days count as unexcused
absences however students will be able to make up all
work under the same policy as excused absences.
For students who have unexcused absences, they will be
permitted to make up work for full credit provided they meet
all guidelines for submitting the work.
Special Note: Students are allowed to make up their work for
unexcused absences, but they are not able to make‐up time
for courses where they exceed 10 absences. In this situation,
the student is subject to the FF policy as outlined in this
document.
Student Services, Student Activities & Parent Organizations
Appointments with Counselors. Students and parents may
call or see Ms. Traversi in the Student Services reception area,
Room 1102, to make an appointment to meet with a
counselor or other members of the Student Services staff.
Students may come before or after school, or during their
lunch period to make appointments.
Assemblies. Assemblies at Holly Springs High are extensions
of classroom instruction. For assemblies to be positive
experiences, students must behave in an appropriate
manner. The following standards will be applied to all
assemblies at HSHS:
 Students are required to follow instructions for
entering and leaving all assemblies.
 Students are required to sit quickly and as directed
by the administration and/or teachers.
 Student are required to listen attentively to any
speakers, instructions, or presentations without
causing any interruption or disruption to the activity.
Clubs & Student Activities. Holly Springs High School offers a
wide variety of clubs and student organizations. Please visit
school website for a current list of clubs, honor societies, and
interest groups. Any student wishing to start a new club
should talk with the assistant principal supervising student
activities to receive information about the approval process.
Drivers Education / License Eligibility. WCPSS contracts with
a provider of drivers education. Information on that service is
available from Ms. Regina Cheek (hshsdriversed@gmail.com).
Students are also required by the NCDMV and dropout
prevention services to pass at least 3 of 4 classes at HSHS to
obtain or maintain a learner’s permit or a driver’s license.
You may take driver education without meeting the 3 of 4
passing requirement; however, you will not satisfy the driver
eligibility rules until you pass 3 of 4 classes.
Early Release / Late Arrival. Seniors who are on track to
graduate on time are eligible to apply to have an abbreviated
schedule their senior year. An AP class may not be dropped
to facilitate early release. Approval is contingent on course
availability. Student‐athletes are responsible for checking
with their coach prior to turning in their application to assess
any impact an abbreviated schedule may have on their
athletic eligibility. Students are also responsible for
contacting their counselor concerning graduation
requirements. Credits needed toward graduation will be
considered in approving, partially approving, and/or denying
student requests. After approval, students will be issued an
identification card indicating that they have permission to
leave early or arrive late.
Elevators. Students must have permission to use the
elevators. Students should see Ms. Mattox with a written
explanation of their need for an elevator pass. Students who
are caught riding the elevator without administrative
approval will be subject to immediate disciplinary action.
Mid‐Year Graduation. Seniors may request mid‐year
graduation if they meet graduation requirements by the end
of 1st semester. It may not be possible to move courses from
2nd semester to 1st semester for mid‐year graduation
purposes due to course availability. Seniors interested in mid‐
year graduation need to meet with their counselor and
complete an application available in Student Services. A
deadline for this request will be communicated through the
school website and announcements. Seniors considering this
option should be cautioned that many colleges and
universities prefer that students remain in high school for
four complete years to better prepare for the rigors of
college.
Off Campus Lunch. Authorized junior and seniors will be
permitted to leave campus during HOT Lunch. This privilege
can be revoked by the parent or the administration at any
point. Specific regulations are included as an addendum
located at the end of this document.
Parent Organizations & Booster Groups. Holly Springs High
School parents are vital supporters of our students’ athletic,
artistic and academic pursuits. Parents are encouraged to
join the PTSA and respective booster organizations. Please
visit the school website for more information including
contact information for PTSA and booster groups.
Parking. Authorized juniors and seniors will be permitted to
park on the campus of Holly Springs High School during the
school day. All authorized student cars must be parked in the
assigned space with the corresponding parking pass displayed
in the front window at all times. Students are responsible for
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 6
promptly replacing lost parking tags. Replacement tags can
be purchased in the main office for $10. Any student parking
on campus without a tag, for any reason, will be subject to a
$10 fine and other in‐school disciplinary actions. Repeat
violations may result in towing of vehicle at owner’s expense.
Students must adhere to the tardy policy in order to maintain
their lunch and parking privileges.
Parking regulations are included in an addendum located at
the end of this document.
Schedule Changes. Schedules are generated based on each
student’s course selections. Once finalized, student
schedules will only be adjusted for the following reasons:
 To balance course loads between 1st and 2nd semester
(where possible)
 An increase in rigor
 Prerequisite not met
 Credit already received for the course
 Incomplete schedule (less than 8 courses)
Elective changes will not be made provided that the student
requested the elective as a primary or alternate in their
original course selections. Elective changes will not be made
for students who failed to make course selections.
School Functions & Events. School functions such as dances,
concerts, and athletic events are extensions of the school
day. All school rules must be followed at all school events
that occur after the regular instructional day. Students must
be in good standing to attend and/or participate in these
events. Dances are planned and produced for HSHS students
and their guests that have been pre‐approved by the school
administration only.
Transcripts. Students should visit the Student Services
website for links to order electronic transcripts.
 Electronic Transcript Requests – In State – CFNC. This
transcript can be sent electronically by the student to any
college, university or community college in North
Carolina via CFNC. This is free of charge. The final
transcript is also sent automatically to colleges or
universities in NC after graduation (mid‐year transcript is
not included. You will need your PowerSchool Student ID
to request the transcript.
 Transcript Requests – Out‐of‐State, Scholarships, etc.
Transcripts can be requested through an online site to be
delivered to any college or university in the country. The
cost per transcript is $5. Transcripts that are mailed
usually arrive within 7 days.
 Remember that SAT and ACT scores must be sent directly
to those colleges from www.collegeboard.com or
www.act.org.
In addition, there is no charge for the following paper
transcript requests:
 Mid‐year senior year transcript
 Final transcript after graduation to the college or
university that you will attend
 Transcripts for any scholarship or award requested by
the high school scholarship committee.
Discipline & Safety
Code of Conduct. All students are expected to review the
Holly Springs High School and Wake County Public School
guidelines. School rules apply on campus, on the bus, at the
bus stop, on field trips, and at school sponsored events. If
behaviors off campus disrupt the orderly operation of the
school, school consequence can apply.
WCPSS guidelines are located in the WCPSS Student/Parent
Handbook. The WCPSS Board Policy 6410 includes many of
the items in the district’s Code of Conduct. This code of
conduct addresses but is not limited to:
Level 1: In School Suspension / Possible Short Term
Suspension
I‐1. Noncompliance
I‐2. Disrespect
I‐3. School/Class Attendance
I‐4. Inappropriate Language
I‐5. Inappropriate Dress
I‐6. Electronic Devices
I‐7. Trespassing
I‐8. Tobacco
I‐9. Gambling
Level 2: Short Term Suspension / Possible Long Term
Suspension
II‐1. Integrity (Cheating, Plagiarism, Falsificatin, Violation of
Software Copyright Laws)
II‐2. Inappropriate Literature, Illustrations, & Images
II‐3. Violation of Computer Access
II‐4. Class/Activity Disturbance
II‐5. School Disturbance
II‐6. School Transportation Disturbance
II‐7. Disruptive Protest
II‐8. False Fire Alarm
II‐9. Fire Setting / Incendiary Material
II‐10. Property Damage
II‐11. Theft
II‐12. Extortion
II‐13. Indecent Exposure/Sexual Behavior
II‐14. Harassment/Bullying
II‐15. Sexual Harassment
II‐16. Threat/False Threat
II‐17. Physical Aggression / Fighting
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 7
II‐18.
II‐19.
II‐20.
II‐21.
Failure to Report a Firearm
Hazing
Search & Seizure
Aiding & Abetting
Level 3: Long Term Suspension
III‐1. Narcotics, Alcoholic Beverages, Controlled Substances,
Chemicals & Drug Paraphernalia
III‐2. Gang & Gang Related Activity
III‐3. Weapons / Dangerous Instruments / Substances
III‐4. Assault on a Student
III‐5. Assault on School Personnel or Other Adult
III‐6. Assault Involving Weapon / Dangerous Instrument /
Substances
III‐7. Bomb Threat
III‐8. Bomb Threat: Aiding/Abetting
III‐9. Acts of Terror
Level 4: Suspensions Required Under State Law
IV‐1. Firarm / Destructive Device – 365 Days Suspsension
The school will consider mitigating and aggravating factors as
appropriate in applying appropriate disciplinary consequence
in alignment with this policy.
Disclaimer for WCPSS Handbook. All students are
responsible for complying with and are expected to be
familiar with the WCPSS Code of Student Conduct and school
board policies governing student behavior and conduct. All
Code of Student Conduct policies are contained in the WCPSS
Student/Parent Handbook, which is distributed to all students
and parents at the beginning of each school year or upon
enrollment in WCPSS. If there is a conflict between the rules
expressed in this handbook / agenda / planner and the Code
of Student Conduct policies, the WCPSS Code of Student
Conduct policies shall take precedence.
Todas las políticas del Código de Conducta Estudiantil se
encuentran en el manual de WCPSS de Estudiantes/Padres, el
cual se distribuye a todos los padres y estudiantes al principio
de cada año escolar o al matricularse en el WCPSS. Si hay un
conflicto entre las reglas expresadas en este manual de
Estudiantes/Padres y el manual/agenda/planificador de la
escuela de su hijo(a) las reglas expresadas en este manual
deben tomar prioridad.
For our discipline process to be successful, it is essential that
students and parents report to the school’s administration
any violation of policy that they are aware of. It is also
important that this is reported in a timely manner.
Bullying, Harassment, & Sexual Harassment. It is a priority
for Holly Springs High School to provide every student with a
safe and orderly learning environment. To this end, bullying
and harassment of any form are prohibited. Students and
parents should review WCPSS Board Policy 6414 in the
Student/Parent Handbook for a specific definition of bullying
and harassment.
Sexual harassment is also prohibited including unwelcome
sexual advances, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual
nature, etc. Students should review WCPSS Board Policy
6415 in the Student/Parent Handbook for a specific definition
of sexual harassment.
Students are encouraged to report any act of bullying or
harassment to their teacher, counselor, or administrator to
seek support. Students are also encouraged to report any act
that they witness so that appropriate steps can be taken to
ensure a safe, orderly learning environment. Interventions
and consequences will be applied as appropriate within the
Student Code of Conduct as it relates to this policy.
Violations of these policies can result in out‐of‐school
suspension on the first offense.
Dress Code. The following items listed below are some of the
most common violations of the dress code policy:
 Exposed undergarments
 Attire that exposes cleavage
 Bare midriff shirts
 Backless shirts, halter tops, net shirts,
strapless/shoulderless shirts, or shirts that expose
the torso on the sides.
 Shirts/tops with spaghetti straps
 Excessively tight, revealing, and/or short garments
 Skirts and shorts not at mid‐thigh length
 Belt chains outside of clothing
Hats, hoods, and headgear are permitted in the hallways
during transition and during lunch. They are not permitted in
the classroom during instructional time. Any hats or attire
that obscures the face is not permitted at any time.
Attire cannot advertise materials that are inappropriate for
students to have at school.
The HSHS faculty and staff will enforce the dress code starting
with the first day of school. Students who violate the dress
code will be subject to consequence from the school
administration and/or removal from the classroom setting
until they are in compliance with the dress code.
Drugs / Alcohol. WCPSS Board Policy 6410 defines details of
the possession, use, distribution, sale, etc. of narcotics,
alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, chemicals or drug
paraphernalia. Students should review this policy in the
WCPSS Student/Parent Handbook. Any violation of this policy
will result in a recommendation for long‐term suspension.
Electronic Devices. Students are expected to follow school
procedures for use of electronic devices during the school
day. All students are expected to read and follow the
Acceptable Use document. Specifically, students should
observe expectations according to the following zones:
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 8



Green Zones: Usage is permitted in these areas for
personal reasons.
Yellow Zones: Usage is permitted for teacher‐
monitored activities.
Red Zones: Usage is prohibited. Devices should not
be visible or audible.
Students who are using their device in an unauthorized way
will be asked to put their device away and/or their device will
be confiscated by the teacher. In this case, an appropriate
consequence will be applied by the school administration that
is aligned with the Student Code of Conduct. Where devices
are confiscated, they will only be returned to the parent /
guardian.
Fighting / Physical Aggression. Physical aggression or
fighting toward others is prohibited. It is important to note:
 Students who engage in horseplay or taking actions that
could reasonably lead to a fight have violated this policy.
 Self defense is defined in district policy as “reasonable
force … but only to the extent necessary to get free from
the attack and notify proper school authorities.”
 Students who engage in fighting will be suspended for a
minimum of 5 days of out‐of‐school suspension.
 Long‐term suspension is a possibility on the first violation
of this policy.
Noncompliance with Staff Directives. All students are
expected to comply with directions of school personnel or
volunteers who are authorized to give such direction. All
students are expected to identify themselves when asked.
Failure to do so can result in in‐school suspension on the first
occurance.
Off Limits Areas. The administration has determined the
following areas to be off limits for students during the
identified times unless under direct supervision of a staff
member:
 Students are not permitted on another school
campus without permission. Doing so is considered
trespassing and subject to school and legal
consequence.
 Students are not permitted in faculty parking areas
or the bus parking lot at any time.
 Athletic practice fields.
 All wooded areas of campus at any time including
the nature trail
 During class time: hallways without a pass,
bathrooms without a pass, commons area without a
pass, and unsupervised outside and inside areas.
Safety Drills. Fire drills and lockdown drills are required
safety precautions. Thus, at the time of the drill, all student
should follow directions of staff. Procedures will be reviewed
with students.
School Resource Officers (SRO). The Town of Holly Springs
provides two school resource officers from the Holly Springs
Police Department. The officers are available to students and
parents as a resource to support a safe and orderly learning
environment.
Searches. HSHS administration has the authority to search a
student, student belongings, student locker, or student
automobile whenever a school authority has reasonable
suspicion to believe that the student is in possession of illegal
or unauthorized materials. Failure to permit the search can
result in disciplinary consequences aligned with the WCPSS
Student Code of Conduct.
Skipping / Leaving Campus Without Permission. Students
are expected to be in their assigned location. Student who
are not in their assigned space or are more than five minutes
late to class are considered skipping. Students who leave
campus without checking out of school are considered to be
skipping. When students leave campus during the school
day, that will be considered an aggravating factor in assigning
a consequence given the additional safety concerns with
students leaving campus without permission. This includes a
student who does not return from HOT Lunch as well as a
student who leaves campus but does not have off campus
privileges. Any of these infractions can result in out‐of‐school
suspension on the first offense.
Trespassing. No student shall be on the campus of any other
WCPSS school during the day without the knowledge and
consent of the officials of the school that he/she is visiting.
Students who loiter at any school after the close of the school
day without a specific reason or adult supervision will be
considered trespassers. Students who do not leave the
campus when instructed will be referred to law enforcement
for further legal action. Any student suspended from school
is prohibited by law from being on any school campus during
the suspension period without permission of the principal.
Further, students who bring unauthorized individuals onto
campus and/or have knowledge of those on campus who
should not be present are subject to disciplinary action up to
and including out‐of‐school suspension.
Parking Regulations
1.
Students must clear all other fees and fines,
including class dues, prior to purchasing a parking
permit. Permits will not be issued to students with
outstanding fines or fees owed to Holly Springs High
School. You can view your outstanding fees and fines
in HomeBase.
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 9
2.
3.
4.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
The parking fee established by the Wake County
Board of Education for the 2015‐2016 school year is
$170.00. Payments can be made via the OSP online
site at: http://osp.osmsinc.com/wakenc/. Please
upload a copy of the receipt with your online
application. Fee will be reduced by $17 per month;
however this is subject to change, per Wake County
School Board.
Parking permit applications will be available to
students who have a valid North Carolina Driver’s
License.
Vehicles must be parked in assigned spaces. All
students who park on campus must display a current
year parking tag. The tag must be hung from the
inside rear view mirror, facing the front of the
vehicle. Students who park on campus without a
tag, for any reason, will be subject to in‐school
consequences as well as a $10 fine (1st and 2nd
offense). Students who receive their third violation
will be subject to in‐school consequences and may
be subject to towing. Vehicles will be towed at the
owner’s expense.
Vehicles should be parked front‐end first. Backing
into spaces is not permitted.
The safe operation of motor vehicles is required.
Vehicles must not travel in excess of 10 miles per
hour. Seat belts are required for driver and all
passengers. Speeding and reckless driving are
prohibited. Exiting from student lots in the afternoon
will be held until buses clear the area.
Unsafe operation of vehicles on campus may
warrant suspension of parking privileges as outlined
in the HSHS Student Handbook.
Supervision is provided for parking lots; however,
the school system is not responsible for damages to
or theft from vehicles. Students are cautioned NOT
to leave valuables in their vehicles. Parked vehicles
should be left with windows closed and doors
locked.
Student vehicles are subject to search and seizure
per Wake County School Board Policy 6600.
Disabled vehicles may not be left on campus
overnight. If necessary, towing should be arranged
by the student.
If a student holding an assigned parking space
transfers within the WCPSS during the year, he or
she will be assigned a space at the new school with
no further payment of fees, assuming the original
parking tag has been returned to the office of the
previous school. If no space is available at the new
school, the originating school will make the refund.
Refunds for parking fees will be made only if the
student moves away from the Wake County Public
School System. Parking fees will NOT be refunded
for:
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
1.
• Voluntary withdrawal from school (dropping out);
• Long‐term suspension from school;
• School‐based disciplinary action related to loss of
parking privilege;
• Loss of driving privilege due to revocation of
operator’s license
• All other refund requests are at the discretion of
the Principal
Only one tag will be issued per student. Students
may register up to two of their family vehicles. The
tag may be moved one registered family vehicle to
another but may NOT be sold, given, or loaned to
another student for his or her use. The penalty for
doing so is revocation of parking privileges. Spaces
may NOT be shared by students.
Students shall inform the office immediately of any
changes in vehicle or license plate. Bring a copy of
the registration for the vehicle you are adding to
your application file at that time.
Lost parking tags will be replaced for a $10 fee. Lost
passes should be promptly reported to the main
office.
School Board Policy prohibits the possession and /or
use of tobacco products on campus. Students may
not possess tobacco products or smoke in cars at any
time while on the school campus.
Loitering in the parking lot is prohibited. Students
should lock their cars and leave the parking lot
immediately upon arriving at school. Students need
written permission from an administrator to be in
student lots during school hours.
Students who operate a motor vehicle on campus
should fully understand their duties and
responsibilities. Under School Board Policy 7180,
students who violate parking regulations are subject
to any or all of the following consequences:
• Revocation of parking privilege
• Ticketing
• Towing and storage of the vehicle, at the owner’s
expense
• Disciplinary action
• Criminal charges as prescribed by law
Handicapped parking is available as needed on an
assigned basis only.
Students and Parents must read the “R U Buckled”
agreement form available for viewing at:
www.hollyspringshigh.org
Students who park in the South lot will enter/exit
the building via the 1600 hallway.
Parking a vehicle on school property is a privilege,
not a right. Please review all parking regulations with
your parents and call the school for clarification of
any matter about which there are questions.
Holly Springs High School | 2015‐16 Student Handbook | Page 10
Off Campus Lunch Guidelines
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
The student will not take students off campus who are
not authorized to leave.
The student will return to school for the remainder of
the school day. Note: If a student becomes ill while off
campus, a parent/guardian must call the Attendance
Office to check the student out. The student must
present a parent’s note to the Attendance Office upon
return to school. Failure to check out properly will be
treated as skipping.
The student will maintain an acceptable conduct
record in accordance with the policies of the
Wake County Board of Education and Holly
Springs High School.
The student will return to class on time. Failure to
return to class on time will result in the suspension of
off campus lunch privileges as defined by the HSHS
Student Handbook.
Students must exit campus in a vehicle via the Main
Entrance or South Lot lunch pass checkpoints.
The student and parent/guardian are responsible for
where the student goes for lunch and for transportation.
Students are only allowed to leave campus with other
current HSHS students.
Students may not bring outside food into the
cafeteria nor may they purchase food to be
brought back to school for underclassman
students.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
No food, drink, or litter is to be brought into the building
or left in the parking lot.
Students who do not show their off‐campus permit will
not be allowed to leave campus.
The school assumes no extra liability for any accident or
injury incurred in the exercise of this permit.
The student has earned the required credits to be
classified as a junior or senior for the 2015‐16 school
year.
Current year Junior/Senior class dues must be paid at the
time of, or prior to, the purchase of an Off‐Campus Lunch
Permit.
Student dues can be paid via the OSP site listed below.
**In addition, all prior year fines and must be cleared.
The charge for an original lunch pass is $5.00 (payable
by Cash, Check, Money Order, and the OSP online site:
http://osp.osmsinc.com/wakenc/.) If payment is made
via the OSP site, a copy of the receipt must accompany
the notarized permit application. If the lunch pass is
misplaced, the charge for a replacement pass is $10.00.
Students exercising off‐campus lunch privileges are subject
to rules of student conduct applicable during the regular
school day. The abuse of any of these provisions may result
in a suspended or terminated off‐campus lunch permit
and/or other disciplinary consequences.
Have a question or need to share an issue?
It is important for all students to take an active role in their experience. If you have a question, need to report an issue, have a
suggestion for improvement, or just want to share a celebration, we encourage you to do one of the followings:



Ask to see your counselor or administrator.
Use the online form to submit feedback (bit.ly/hshsfeedback).
Leave a message in the front office for the principal.
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